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VOLUME 3 { NO 3} EDITION 9
{ Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing} . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . S UMME R
07
SUMMER 2007 BULLETIN
NC BOARD OF NURSING
Nursing Bulletin is the official
publication of the North
Carolina Board of Nursing.
Of f ice Locat ion
3724 National Drive, Ste 201
Raleigh, NC 27612
Mailing Address
P. O. Box 2129
Raleigh, NC 27602
Telephone
( 919) 782- 3211
Fax
( 919) 781- 9461
Automated Verification
( 919) 881- 2272
Website
www. ncbon. com
Office Hours
8 a. m. to 5 p. m.,
Monday through Friday
Board Chair
Beverly Foster, PhD, RN
Executive Director
Polly Johnson, RN, MSN, FAAN
Editor
David Kalbacker
Artists
Linda Arthurs, RN
Paulette Young
DayMeetsNight Photography
Mission Statement
The North Carolina Board of
Nursing is committed to protecting
the health and well- being of the
public through regulating the deliv-ery
of safe, effective nursing care.
Advertisements contained here-in
are not necessarily endorsed by
the North Carolina Board of
Nursing. The publisher reserves the
right to accept or reject advertise-ments
for the Nursing Bulletin.
All art ( photos, paintings, draw-ings,
etc.) contained in this publi-cation
is used under contractual
agreement.
123,000 copies of this document
were printed and mailed for a cost
of $. 12 per copy
The North Carolina Board of
Nursing is an equal opportunity
employer.
CREATED BY:
Publishing Concepts, Inc.
14109 Taylor Loop Road
Little Rock, AR 72223
Virginia Robertson, President
vrobertson@ pcipublishing. com
FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION:
Greg Jones
gjones@ pcipublishing. com
501.221.9986 • 800.561.4686
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
VOLUME 3 { NO 3 } EDITION 9
COTaNbleToEfNTS
9
14
DEPARTMENTS: 6 l e t t e r s t o t h e e d i t o r 7 f r o m t h e e x e c u t i v e
d i r e c t o r 8 f r o m t h e c h a i r 21 t h e B r e a k R o o m 27 S u m m a r y o f
A c t i o n s 29 C l a s s i f i e d s 30 2 0 0 7 Wo r k s h o p R e g i s t r a t i o n F o r m
18
Vot ing Di rect ions &
Slate of Candidates 2007
Frequent ly Asked
Ques t ions :
Cont inuing
Competence
Hepatitis C in North Carolina:
What Every Nurse Should Know
Vote 24 E l l i s Re c e i v e s Emp l o y e e
E x c e l l e n c e Awa r d
24 S e r v i n g t h e P u b l i c t h r o u g h
Re g u l a t o r y E x c e l l e n c e
Send letters to: Editor, Nursing
Bulletin, North Carolina Board of
Nursing, P. O. Box 2129, Raleigh, NC 27602- 2129
or Email, david@ ncbon. com
e t t e r s
t o t h e
E D I T O R L
{ Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing } . . . . . . . . . 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
“ DISAPPOINTED IN CARDLESS
LICENSURE SYSTEM”
I am disappointed in the new cardless licensure system. I take
pride in my license and have been proud of the professional
look of our current license. I wish you would reconsider this
system – even if it would be necessary to increase the cost.
LYNN PHELPS
EDITOR’S NOTE
Cost was not the main reason for going cardless. The
cardless licensure listing has several advantages. It
eliminates the worry of loosing a license. It eliminates
imposters using fraudulent licenses and it assists
employers in satisfying JACHO standards requiring the
primary source data for license verification.
“ FIRST NURSE/ ARTIST FEATURED”
Linda Arthurs is the
first nurse/ artist to
produce cover art
for the Nursing
Bulletin Magazine.
A registered nurse
for more than thir-ty
years, Arthurs,
worked most of her
nursing career at
High Point
Regional Health
Systems on the
Behavioral Health
Unit. “ Last June I
switched to PRN with the hospital in order to pursue a sec-ond
career in the art world. My husband and I have a
small photography studio located in Lexington, NC, said
Arthurs. “ I love photographing people enjoying the special
times in their lives.” If you can’t stop by and visit Arthurs’
studio, you can see her work on- line at
www. arthursphoto. com.
Arthurs is the mother of four children and has four grand-children.
NURSING BULLETIN MAGAZINE WINS GOLD
On May 15, 2007 the N. C. Board of Nursing was notified that this magazine, the Nursing Bulletin was awarded an Aster Award for
Excellence in Medical/ Healthcare Communications. The Aster Awards is a national medical marketing awards program allowing
healthcare organizations and advertising agencies to compete against similarly sized competitors from across the nation.
Each year the Aster Awards holds a competition allowing entries designed, printed and distributed the previous year to be scored and
judged for the possibility of receiving a Gold, Silver or Bronze award. This year more than 3,000 entries were received.
The Nursing Bulletin won Gold in the magazine series category.
Once again we are approaching a very important
time in the life of our Board of Nursing - the ELEC-TIONS!
Between July 1 and August 15, each North Carolina
licensee has the opportunity to participate in the process that
determines the membership of our Board. I ask each of you to
take part in this important, democratic process and ask you to
urge your nurse colleagues to do the same. VOTE!!! The can-didates
have already made a major commitment to protecting
the public through volunteering their service on this Board of
Nursing. It is now your responsibility to select the candidates
who will carry out this important public service. See page 14 for
all the election details.
As we continue on our journey of “ Serving The Public through
Regulatory Excellence,” the board must focus on a wide range of
regulatory standards from requirements for prelicensure educa-tion
programs, requirements for initial licensure and on- going
competence, to practice, remediation and disciplinary standards
that provide public protection through the delivery of safe,
effective nursing care. At their May 2007 meeting, the Board
gave final approval to set the following standards for all RN and
PN nursing education programs by 2015: ( 1) to achieve and
maintain on- going accreditation by a national nursing creden-tialing
body approved by the US Department of Education; and
( 2) to raise the standard for faculty preparation to a master’s or
nursing doctorate degree. The Board is committed to assuring
adequate preparation of our future workforce to meet the
demands for nursing care in an extremely complex healthcare
environment. I commend the Board for making these bold
moves now for the sake of the future.
As we continue to assure the public that our licensees are
safe to practice, the Board is expanding its non- disciplinary,
alternative program options for nurses struggling with chemical
dependency as well as for those nurses who have had positive
screens for alcohol or illicit drugs in work- related situations.
The NC Board of Nursing’s Alternative Program is a model for
many other regulatory boards in the state and nationally.
The Practitioner Remediation and Practice Enhancement
Partnership ( PREP) program continues to expand as we work
with nurses with deficits in knowledge, skills and clinical deci-sion-
making abilities and their employers through collabora-tive,
non- punitive agreements to enhance their competence as
practitioners to provide safe patient care. Within the quality
improvement and safe patient care initiatives across our state,
we are participating in a Just Culture Collaborative with sever-al
hospitals to evaluate adverse events to determine whether the
actions of a nurse ( or nurses) involved in the event warrant
counseling, remediation or disciplinary action – either at the
employment level, the Board level or both. We are also initiat-ing
dialogue with other regulatory bodies in the state to become
part of this patient safety initiative. The overall purpose of
these activities is to promote open dialogue that facilitates a cul-ture
of learning from errors while promoting consistency in how
events are evaluated by the employer and the Board. To learn
more about “ Just Culture” – a term coined by David Marx – visit
www. justculture. org.
Just as the Board takes its responsibility to protect the health
and well- being of the public seriously, I hope you will take seri-ously
your opportunity as a licensed nurse to determine who
serves on our Board. Please VOTE!!!!
Polly Johnson, RN, MSN, FAAN
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
f r o m t h e
E x e c u t i v e
D i r e c t o r
8 { Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing } . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What an exciting season summer is…. picnics, family gatherings, gardening and
…. voting! Yes, voting! Board member elections will be open from July 1 through
August 15. We have three openings in the 2007 election: one for an RN who is a
nurse administrator in a hospital or a hospital system; one for an RN who is a nurse
educator in a BSN or higher degree nursing program; and one for an LPN. You can
learn all about the candidates on the web cast located on the Board website, and you
can cast your vote there as well. See www. ncbon. com for all the details.
Let me encourage all of you to vote! There are 102,664 RN’s eligible to vote, but
only about 3 % ( 3,263) cast a ballot in 2006. For the same time period, only about
1.3% of the registered LPN's ( 21,046) voted. The Board needs your active involve-ment!
We are one of the few Boards in the nation elected by the professional con-stituency,
and I hope you will exercise this privilege. When I travel to the National
Council of State Boards of Nursing meetings on behalf of the Board and interact with
other Chairs, they are invariably envious of our autonomy and democratic representa-tion
process. I look forward to the election results and the welcoming of new mem-bers
in the fall.
The array of Board business offers something of interest to each of you…. educa-tional
standards revision, peer support programs, practice analyses and change, com-pliance
requirements, thoughtful dialogues regarding the changing climate for practice
and its regulatory implications, collaboration with other organizations to promote a
safe practice environment and participation in research to support our practice ( that
evidence- based phrase we hear so much about!) just to name a few. Periodically the
Board schedules a retreat for reflection, learning and relationship building within our
membership. Such a recent retreat led by Don Wells was a success, and we returned
to the business of the public meetings energized, a bit more informed and clearly valu-ing
each member for their contributions. Our Board is a unique blend of individuals
working together to protect the health of NC citizens through our practice. It isn’t
always smooth or easy, but it is always rewarding.
Beverly Foster, PhD, RN
f r o m t h e
c h a i r p e r s o n
George named
new Associate
Executive
Director for
Programs
Effective June 1, 2007, Julie George will be the Associate Executive
Director for Programs for the North Carolina Board of Nursing. George has
been on the board’s staff for more than 11 years and has moved up the
career ladder, starting as an Investigator to Practice Manager to Director of
Education and Practice. George succeeds Carol Swink who retired in May.
C HE PATITI S C in North Carolina
WHAT E V E RY NUR S E SHOULD KNOW
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
Hepatitis C virus ( HCV) infection is the most com-mon
blood- borne viral infection in the United States.
Studies done through the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention ( CDC) show that 1.6 percent of
Americans ( about 4 million) are infected with HCV,
most of whom are chronically infected ( 2.7 million).
Many of these individuals are not aware of their infection
and have no overt symptoms of the disease. Because hep-atitis
C progresses slowly, the consequences of the disease
may not become apparent until 10- 20 years after infec-tion.
Studies show that 60- 80 percent of HCV- infected
persons develop chronic infection. Hepatitis C has been
described as “ a silent epidemic” due to these millions of
undiagnosed cases.
Risk factors for HCV infection include injection drug
use— even if only once many years ago, transfusion of
blood and blood products before 1992, use of blood clot-ting
components before 1987, tattoos/ piercings with a
contaminated needle, occupational exposures to blood,
birth of an infant to an infected mother, and, to a lesser
extent, sexual contact with an infected partner.
The number of new ( acute) cases of HCV is actually
decreasing nationwide as blood tests and screening have
become more sophisticated and those at greatest risk are
becoming more educated about ways to reduce their risks.
More alarming are the growing numbers of people who
were unknowingly infected with HCV years ago and are
only now experiencing the devastating effects of the dis-ease.
For these people, primarily in the 40- 65 age group,
learning they have chronic hepatitis C is a frightening
and bewildering prospect.
The hepatitis C virus was not discovered until 1989.
Until that time, the disease was known as non- A, non- B
hepatitis. According to the CDC, the risk of developing
hepatitis C after an occupational exposure is 1.8 percent.
You may be one of many nurses who unknowingly had an
occupational exposure to the hepatitis C virus years ago.
So how do you know if you are one of the infected thou-sands
who have chronic hepatitis C?
Because symptoms of the disease are usually absent or
nonspecific, the only sure way to determine if you are
infected is to be tested. Thorough testing includes HCV
antibody testing, HCV RNA RT- PCR testing ( which
measures HCV viral load), and liver function tests. If
hepatitis C is confirmed, a liver biopsy may be needed to
determine the need for treatment.
Many people who are diagnosed with hepatitis C
believe they have been handed a death sentence. This is
NOT true! The majority of those diagnosed with chronic
hepatitis C ( 80 percent) will have a stable course of the
disease and experience no obvious ill effects. A lifestyle
that includes a healthy diet, exercise, and little to no
alcohol consumption, along with regular monitoring of
liver enzymes and other lab work is all that’s needed to
live a healthy life with hepatitis C. Because hepatitis C is
a bloodborne virus, transmission can be prevented by
covering any open cuts, sores, or wounds, and by not
sharing anything that might have blood on it, such as
razors, nail clippers, etc.
But what if you’re one of those with chronic hepatitis
C for whom treatment is recommended? Despite ideas to
the contrary, hepatitis C can be successfully treated! The
goal of treatment is to eradicate the virus. Currently, the
standard of care is a combination of two medications.
Pegylated interferon is injected once a week and ribavirin
comes in pill form and is taken twice daily. The course of
treatment is generally for 24 or 48 weeks, depending on
what genotype or strain of hepatitis the patient has.
YOU’ L L B E HE A R ING MOR E
A BOUT CHRONIC HE PAT I T S C
IN THE NEXT T EN TO F I F T E EN
Y E A R S . CDC P R EDICT S THAT
THE HCV- R E L AT ED MORTA L I T Y
MIGHT DOUB L E OR T R I P L E
OV E R THE NEXT T EN TO
TWENT Y Y E A R S .
continued >>
10 { Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing } . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
THE NORTH
CA ROLI NA
HE PAT I T I S C
P ROGR AM
NC DIVISION OF
PUBLIC HEALTH
The Hepatitis C Program is integrat-ed
with the HIV/ STD Prevention and
Care Branch because both Hepatitis C
( HCV) and HIV infections involve
blood- borne pathogens requiring simi-lar
disease response and prevention.
The programs serve similar at- risk pop-ulations.
A primary focus of the
Hepatitis C Program is to provide edu-cation,
not only to healthcare providers
and professionals across the state, but
also to consumers. Education, in the
form of presentations, written materi-als,
and videotapes, is available from
the state Hepatitis C Program. Two
good sources of information available
from the Hepatitis C Program are the
Hepatitis C: Get the Facts information
packets designed for newly diagnosed
persons and the Hepatitis C Resource
Directory for North Carolinians. Both
provide a wealth of information about
hepatitis C, including testing, counsel-ing,
and medical management, along
with support group services available
throughout the state.
The vision of the North Carolina
Hepatitis C Program is for all North
Carolinians to have access to viral hepatitis
testing, treatment, and prevention services,
regardless of ability to pay, and for educa-tion
and awareness of viral hepatitis to
become a statewide priority with funds allo-cated
to make the vision a reality.
FOR MORE INFORMATION,
CONTACT THE NC HEPATITIS C
PROGRAM AT 919 733- 2030 EXT. 56
PETE. MOORE@ NCMAIL. NET.
Positive response rates to treatment
range from 40- 80 percent, again depending
on the genotype and various characteristics
of the individual. The decision to treat is
highly individualized and should be made
only after a thorough discussion between
patient and physician.
If CDC estimates are correct, you’ll be
hearing more about chronic hepatitis C in
the next ten to fifteen years. CDC predicts
that the HCV- related mortality might dou-ble
or triple over the next ten to twenty
years. Research has projected that the
national cost of direct medical care for hepa-titis
C from 2010 through 2019 will reach
over $ 10 billion. So, if you’re a nurse who
has worked for many years in the profession,
who may have had an occupational exposure
years ago, or who has one or more of the risk
factors listed above, please get tested. It’s
the only way to know for sure if you have
hepatitis C.
14 { Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing } . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DIRECTIONS
TO VOTE BY TELEPHONE:
Dial the Board’s special toll- free number, 1- 877-
531- 1811. Listen to the directions, and enter your
candidate selection ( via push- button from a
touch- tone phone).
TO VOTE ONLINE:
Log on to the Board’s website at www. ncbon. com,
click on the Election 2007 link, and follow the
instructions.
The system for either telephone or Internet voting
will confirm your voter eligibility and tabulate
results electronically.
The slate of candidates for 2007 is
included in this mailing of the
Bulletin. In it you will find biographi-cal
and practice information about the
candidates, as well as their personal
reasons for wanting to be members of
the Board of Nursing.
Please read and follow directions
carefully. As you review the informa-tion
provided by candidates, remember
that you don’t have to know each can-didate
on the slate personally to make
a selection. Instead, take the time to
review each candidate’s background
information and his or her stated rea-sons
for wanting to serve on the Board
of Nursing. Then cast your vote for
the candidate who you feel is most
qualified.
We urge each of you to take the
time to vote for the candidate of your
choice via telephone or Internet. It is
fast, it is easy, and it makes a differ-ence!
Participating in the election is a
significant way to influence the deci-sions
that affect your practice of nurs-ing
in North Carolina.
If you have any questions regarding
the slate of candidates or the electron-ic
election system, contact Angela
Ellis at the Board office, ( 919) 782-
3211, ext. 259, or angela@ ncbon. com.
VOTE IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE!
Voting
Beginning July 1, you can have a direct impact
on nursing issues in North Carolina by voting in this
year’s election of nurse members of the North
Carolina Board of Nursing.
Your certificate number and four- digit PIN com-bine
to become a unique identifier that allows you
to vote in the 2007 elections. Your PIN is located in
the upper- right corner of the mailing label affixed to
this issue of Nursing Bulletin. If you cannot read or
locate your PIN, simply provide the information
requested by the electronic election system, and it
will issue your PIN.
You can vote by telephone or via the Internet
starting on July 1. The last day to vote is August 15,
2007. Remember that you can do this 24 hours a
day, 7 days a week.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
SLATE OF CANDIDATES FOR 2007
LPN SLATE OF CANDIDATES: LPNS VOTE FOR LPNS
# 1 NAME: JOAN GUILIANELLI BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: I am an LPN with 30+ years of
experience in a variety of areas including but not limited to ICU, CCU, ER, newborn nursery, personal
health, orthopedics, and research. I am from NY where I attended college at the Albany Occupational
Center obtaining my LPN license. I am currently working at the Durham VAMC in Durham, NC. My pas-sion
is in urology where I have worked for the past ten years. I have had my urology certification for eight
years. I believe in ongoing education for all nurses. I feel an educated nurse is an asset to both patients and
employers. What do I have to offer the public of North Carolina if I am elected to the Board of Nursing? I have many years of
experience as a LPN. I have listened to many nurses with positive and negative issues. I feel I can bring some of these con-cerns
to the board to be addressed and to work toward positive outcomes for all involved. I would like to serve on the
North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . . I would like a better understanding of the board’s role on a local/ statewide
basis. I would then like to share this knowledge with peers and encourage them to become more involved. How will the
experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s work? The LPNs role today is somewhere between the CNA
and the RN. Sometimes it is a very gray area and the boundaries are unclear. I feel with my experience I can contribute to
the board ideas and viewpoints to improve the nursing role in NC.
# 3 NAME: DENNIS L. THOMPSON BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: I am a 52 year old single dad
and grandfather of four beautiful children. I have more than 30 years of nursing experience, 20 of which was
in a hospital setting. I have worked throughout the hospital from acute to sub- acute theaters. I have experi-ence
in the surgical intensive care, coronary care units ( I have credentialing in EKG interpretation) and pre
and post- op surgical units. I was shift supervisor in an eight bed peritoneal dialysis unit with a staff of four.
Currently, I am working in long term care. In my free time I enjoy reading, playing cards and taking vaca-tions.
What do I have to offer the public of North Carolina if I am elected to the Board of Nursing? I offer 30 years of experi-ence
in every theater of nursing. I am knowledgeable in medications, a preceptor for new nurses in our facility and have
credentialing of clinical nurse two. I work closely with the general public in my every day setting. I would like to serve on the
North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . . I will have a voice and chance to make a difference for all nurses and citizens
in North Carolina. I am a thinker and I will offer frank and honest input, based upon my direct experience. My vocation is
my way to give back to our community. How will the experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s work? I
work directly with the public on a daily basis. I am committed to my patients, their families and my
employer. The past 30 years of nursing provides me with a wealth of experience to draw upon when it
comes to dealing with issues facing nursing professionals.
# 2 NAME: PAUL J. RUSK BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: I have been in nursing almost 26 years. I
graduated from UNC- Wilmington in 1981 with a BA in Sociology. I then graduated from Cape Fear Technical
College in 1982 as a LPN. I served five years in the U. S. Navy before starting school. I worked for New
Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington for 23 years in cardiac. I have worked the last two and a half
years as Director of Azalea Place assisted living for Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehab Center. My work
experience includes dialysis, cardiac, med- surg and step down unit. What do I have to offer the public of North
Carolina if I am elected to the Board of Nursing? I offer 26 years of dedication as a nurse in North Carolina. I offer seven
years experience as a Board Member. I am dedicated to protecting the public and ensuring they receive excellent nursing
care. It is very important to keep to the Mission of the Board of Nursing, which is to protect the public, and maintain the
nursing profession. I would like to serve on the North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . . I believe that I have the drive to
help maintain the safe and competent practice of nursing. I will ensure that the public remains safe and has the confidence in
the nurses in our state to deliver that care. How will the experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s work?
With 26 years of nursing, I have seen a lot of changes in the profession. It is very important to stay up with the changes in
the nursing profession, and to keep our nurses up to date. With all my nursing experience and service on the Board, I feel I
strive to do just that. As a nurse in this state, it is very important to keep up with the issues facing our Board and the public.
I t m a k e s a d i f f e r e n c e ! Vote
16 { Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing } . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RN SLATE OF CANDIDATES: RNS VOTE FOR RNS
# 1 NAME: LUCILLE L. TRAVIS BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Lucille Lombardi Travis PhD, RN, CNA, BC is Associate
Dean/ Director of the School of Nursing at UNC- Charlotte. Prior to assuming this position, she served as Special Assistant to the
Provost after serving as Dean for the College of Nursing at University of Missouri- St. Louis. Dr. Travis also served as Interim Dean at
Texas Woman’s University College of Nursing. She has a comprehensive background in academic administration including strategic plan-ning,
curriculum development, faculty development, distance learning and nursing informatics. Dr. Travis earned a BSN, MS in nursing
and PhD in higher education administration from The Ohio State University. She also is certified in Nursing Administration by the ANCC
and is a member of ANA and NCNA. What do I have to offer the public of North Carolina if I am elected to the Board of Nursing? I will bring
energy, enthusiasm and passion for the nursing profession. I understand the vital importance of all levels of nursing education, interest and experience
in developing cooperative programs between education and service organizations. I would like to serve on the North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . .
Professional nursing in NC is progressive; I want to be a part of the plan to continue the success that is evident in the state. I believe it is important for
the profession of nursing to maintain the confidence of the public. Nurses are the most trusted professionals in the nation and the BON is responsible
for ensuring that the public continues to view nursing as the discipline that is trusted to provide competent care. How will the experience you have had as
a nurse contribute to the Board’s work? I have been involved in nursing education for more than 35 years, in five different states, and bring a variety of
experiences in numerous venues. A major initiative that I would support is in reducing the barriers to the education pipeline for individuals. One way
for that to happen is to encourage alternative delivery strategies for nursing programs and collaborative initiatives that would allow courses across the
state to be transferable and accessible.
# 2 NAME: ELEANOR JOYCE S. ROLAND BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Dr. Roland is employed as an associate professor
at NCCU Department of Nursing, Durham, NC, and has been at NCCU since 2000. Dr. Roland holds a masters degree in Maternal-
Child Nursing from Seton Hall University, and a doctorate in Community Psychology from NC State University. Dr. Roland taught nurs-ing
at UNC- CH ( 1978- 1989), and worked at Research Triangle Institute ( RTI) from 1991- 1997 ( Research Psychologist). In 1999, she
completed post doctoral work in alcohol epidemiology at the University of California, Berkeley, and from 2004- 2006 was a scholar in
the Mentored Scientist program ( Duke University/ NCCU), funded by the Office of Women’s Health/ NIH. What do I have to offer the
public of North Carolina if I am elected to the Board of Nursing? If elected to the board of nursing, I will bring more than 40+ years of varied
nursing experiences to the board. My preparation in Adult Education strategies will help in identifying new strategies for teaching the diverse mix of
nursing candidates we are attracting. I would like to serve on the North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . . I would like to serve on the board because
it is a way to give back to the State of North Carolina as well as be a part of the decision making as it relates to improving nursing practice in the state
in the 21st century. I’d like to see nursing education available to all who qualify for programs and offered in a manner that will improve the health
care of all the state’s citizens. How will the experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s work? I have had experience teaching the diploma
student, the baccalaureate student, and the RN student. In addition to nursing education, I have years of experience as a staff nurse, an administrator
and a nurse anesthetist. I bring a variety of work experiences in different settings that should help the board in developing policies that will continue
the development of the RN as a very knowledgeable and valuable member of the health care team in North Carolina.
# 3 NAME: PAMELA B. EDWARDS BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: I have been a Registered Nurse for 29 years and have a
Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from Atlantic Christian College, a Master’s Degree in Nursing Education from Villanova University and a
Doctoral Degree in Occupational and Adult Education from North Carolina State University. I have worked as a staff nurse, a clinical
nurse educator, an Education Department Director, as an AHEC Nursing Director, as an Associate Degree Nursing Educator, and MSN
faculty member. I currently serve Duke University Health System as an Associate Chief Nursing Officer, Education and the Duke
University School of Nursing as the Specialty Director of the MSN Nursing Education Program. What do I have to offer the public of North
Carolina if I am elected to the Board of Nursing? If elected to the North Carolina Board of Nursing, I would strive to protect the citizens of this state
through sound decision making and a strong commitment to the regulation of the nursing profession. I would like to serve on the North Carolina Board of
Nursing because. . . This is an exciting time to be involved in Nursing Education in North Carolina. We are working across practice settings to solve
some of the critical barriers to increasing the number of both nursing students and nursing faculty in our state. I would
like the opportunity to serve on the NCBON and have an active role in the regulation of nursing practice and education.
How will the experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s work? As a nurse with 29 years of experience in the
profession, I believe that both my nursing experience as well as my current role as an MSN Specialty Director allows me
the opportunity to have a unique understanding of both education and practice and how we can work more effectively
across those settings. Additionally, I have experience serving on the Board in 2004 and as Vice- Chair in 2005.
POSITION: BSN/ HIGHER DEGREE NURSE EDUCATOR
I t m a k e s a d i f f e r e n c e ! Vote
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
# 1 NAME: MARY ANN FUCHS BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: I hold a BSN from SUNY Binghamton. I attained a Master’s
degree in nursing from Duke University in 1990 and am studying to obtain a post master’s certificate in education. I have 25 years of expe-rience
in nursing. I have held various roles at Duke University Hospital including staff nurse, assistant and nurse manager, Director of
Oncology Nursing and Services and Associate Operating Officer for Oncology. I have also served as a triage nurse for Kaiser and a volun-teer
hospice nurse. Currently, I serve as the Chief Nursing and Patient Care Services Officer for Duke University Hospital and Health
System. As the Nurse Administrator on NCBON for the past 2 years, I believe in the ability to provide expert nursing care to assure safe and
quality service to the public. I’m honest, trustworthy and objectively contribute to the work of the board. I’m knowledgeable about the laws and
the regulatory responsibilities of the board. This I balance with the understanding of professional nursing, assuring a good work environment and decision making
processes incorporating “ just culture” concepts. I would like to serve on the North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . . Professional nursing in NC is progressive; I
want to be a part of the plan to continue the success that is evident in the state. I believe it is important for the profession of nursing to maintain the confi-dence
of the public. Nurses are the most trusted professionals in the nation and the BON is responsible for ensuring that the public continues to view nursing
as the discipline that is trusted to provide competent care. How will the experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s work? The board’s work is to
assure the public has access to competent, safe and ethical care. My experiences as a nurse allow me to understand the skills, competencies and environment
necessary to practice and deliver safe and effective nursing care. My experience in developing and implementing nursing focused strategic plans will also aid
the board in enhancing roles nurses can legally provide ( basic or advanced) to our communities and the public at large.
# 2 NAME: JACQUELINE F. RING BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: I began my nursing career as a Staff Nurse in the Pediatric ICU at
Charlotte Memorial Hospital, after graduating from UNC- Charlotte. I have since held positions in varying capacities including; Nursing
Instructor at Watts Hospital School of Nursing, Nurse Manager and Assistant Director of Women and Infant Services at WakeMed in Raleigh,
Regional Pediatric Home Care Coordinator, and Chief Nursing Officer positions at several hospitals, including my current position as Vice
President of Nursing at Johnston Memorial Hospital in Smithfield, NC. In addition to a BSN, I hold a MBA/ MHA degree from Pfeiffer
University. I would like to serve on the North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . . I offer a caring commitment to utilize my experience, enthusi-asm,
and leadership ability to ensure safe nursing practice for the citizens of North Carolina. I have previously served on the Board for four years
and realize the importance of continuity in addressing the issues of public safety and nursing standards. I will provide insight based on my experience as a Board
member and 31 years of nursing practice to work toward excellence in nursing regulation. How will the experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s
work? I have practiced nursing in educational, administrative, and front- line clinical roles, and can relate to issues in all settings. I clearly understand and have
experienced the frustrations and challenges across the scope of nursing, and will work to represent my nursing colleagues objectively and realistically. My role
as a nursing administrator has given me valuable insight into patient focused concerns as well as nursing issues that are important to the work of the Board.
POSITION: NURSE ADMINISTRATOR IN A HOSPITAL OR HOSPITAL SYSTEM
RN SLATE OF CANDIDATES: RNS VOTE FOR RNS
Once again the overwhelming majority of voters in last year’s election were pleased with our offering an incentive to those nurses in North
Carolina who take the time to vote for candidates to the Board of Nursing. This year we are happy to announce that two quality incentives
have been made available to voters in the 2007 election. Generous donations, in support of nurses in North Carolina, have been made by the
newly opened luxury Franklin Hotel in Chapel Hill and the Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock, North Carolina.
Mark your calendar and vote in the 2007 election ( July 1st to Aug. 15th) so you will be eligible to win one of these exciting getaway incentives.
EF O Rle2c0t0io7nIncentives
I graduated from nursing school, passed NCLEX,
and was licensed for the first time in June, 2007.
When do I start working on my continuing competence
requirement?
Upon initial licensure, you are required to complete
your initial self- assessment and to develop your learn-ing
plan. You keep these documents for your records; they
are not sent to the Board. You then start working to fulfill
your chosen Learning Option. At the time of your first
license renewal, which will occur in July 2008 or later, you
will be required to attest to the fact that you have fulfilled
the Continuing Competence requirement. If audited at that
time, you will be required to submit evidence of completion.
If your initial licensure period is less than two years, the con-tinuing
education requirement within many of the Learning
Options is pro- rated accordingly.
Continuing Competence information and related documents
are available online at: http:// www. ncbon. com/ prac- cont-comp.
asp . A Continuing Competence web cast explaining
the requirements is available at:
http:// www. ncbon. com/ prac- contcompwcast. asp .
I renewed my license in February 2006 before the
Continuing Competence requirement went into
effect. When I renew in February 2008, I will complete
my first self- assessment and learning plan. I plan to meet
my learning goal through completion of 15 contact hours
of continuing education and through working at least 640
hours. What documentation will I need to retain and pro-vide
as evidence, if I am selected for audit at my renewal
in February 2010?
If audited, you will be required to provide copies of
the continuing education certificates which you
obtained upon successful completion of each offering
( remember that employer- sponsored contact hours are limited to
no more than half of your total contact hours!). The certificates
should include the name of the licensee, title of educational
activity, name of the recognized provider, number of contact
hours, and date of activity. In addition, you will be required
to provide documentation of your hours worked in nursing.
The name of the licensee, number of hours worked in calen-dar
or fiscal year( s), name and address of employer, and sig-nature
of supervisor must be included. If you submit a copy
of an official organization pay stub showing your cumulative
worked hours, the signature of a supervisor is not required.
A.
18 { Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing } . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FQ
C O N T I N U I N G C OMP E T E N C E
Frequently Asked
Questions
Q.
A.
Q.
BY LINDA BURHANS
Two States to join nurse licensure compact this summer
The state of Kentucky is implementing the nurse licensure compact agreement effective June 1, 2007 and the state of
Colorado is scheduled to do the same a month later, July 1, 2007.
This will bring the total number of compact states to twenty- two. For those keeping score – the compact states include:
Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North
Carolina, North Dakota, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin and by July Kentucky
and Colorado.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
the BREAK
r o o m
We are all born with
wonderful gifts. We use
these gifts to express
ourselves, to amuse, to
strengthen, and to
communicate. We begin
as children to explore and
develop our talents, often
unaware that we are
unique, that not everyone
can do what we're doing!
24 { Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing } . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
This slogan has been adopted by the
Board’s staff to reflect a heightened awareness
of the services provided to the citizens of
North Carolina by the Board of Nursing.
The staff was challenged to develop a very
short statement that would embrace the
Board’s mission and values. The develop-ment
of this slogan has been a product of the
organization’s efforts to successfully complete
Level II of the North Carolina Awards for
Excellence program. More than 30 suggested
slogans were developed by approximately 15
different staff members.
Staff voted on the slogan they thought
best reflected the Board’s work. Kay
McMullan, Dir. of Investigations/ Monitoring,
developed the winning slogan.
According to McMullan, “ I began by
identifying key words from our mission state-ment.
I moved the words around like I was
playing with magnets that had words on
them. My primary objective was to have an
active slogan, because I realize that our mis-sion
is on going and protecting the public is a
24/ 7 responsibility.”
“ We are the experts in nursing regulation
in the state so I wanted to make sure that was
clearly noted,” added McMullan.
The new slogan has already begun appear-ing
on the Board’s stationery and will also
appear on the Board’s webpage
Serving the Public through
Regulatory Excellence
This year’s conference theme is
“ Cultures in Transition: Healthcare
Consumer, Providers and Payers.” The
keynote speaker will be Dr. Robert
Kolodner, Interim National Coordinator for
Health Information Technology in the
Department of Health and Human Services.
The opening plenary session for the NCHI-CA
Annual conference is scheduled for
Monday, Sept. 24, 2007 at the Grove Park
Inn in Asheville, North Carolina. Additional
conference information is available on- line at:
HTTP:// WWW. NCHICA. ORG/ ACTIVITIES/ 07/ AGENDA. HTM.
Registration is available for one day or for the
entire conference.
The North Carolina
Healthcare Information &
Communications Alliance
( N C H I C A )
scheduled to meet
Employee Excellence Award
The 2007 recipient of the Board’s
Employee Excellence Award is Angela
Ellis, executive assistant to the Executive
Director. Ellis, who has more than 15
years of service at the Board, was the driv-ing
force behind the development of the
Board Member Website and the institu-tion
of “ paperless board meetings.” During
the unveiling of the “ paperless board
meeting,” Ellis presented the program with
great depth of knowledge and was able to
confidently respond to members questions.
One of Ms. Ellis’s most valuable assets
is her ability to be accepting of all types of
personalities – embracing diversity with-out
judgment and with a high degree of
professionalism. Quoting one nominator,
“ Ms. Ellis has always exhibited an
unselfish commitment to her responsibili-ties
at the Board of Nursing.”
The award recognizes the achievements
of Board staff. Recipients are nominated
by fellow staff members.
ELLIS RECEIVES
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
SUMMARY of ACTIONS
In keeping with public records and open meetings laws, the North Carolina Board of Nursing posts all actions in the Nursing Bulletin
or on its website, at www. ncbon. com. A regular meeting of the Board was held on May 22, 2007, in Raleigh. The following is a sum-mary
of the Board’s actions.
From the May 22, 2007, Board Meeting
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
• Approved the proposed fiscal year 2007-
2008 budget to include the following fee
increases effective 01/ 01/ 2008:
- Re- exam from $ 45 to $ 54
- Retired nurse status from $ 25 to $ 30
• Approved proposed revisions to fiscal
policy regarding Expense
Reimbursements for Board Members
• Designated Funds for on- going adminis-trative
activities
EDUCATION/ PRACTICE MATTERS
Ratified mail referendum for program
director approval
Waive 21NCAC 36.0317
Administration ( c) and approve Dr.
Nancy Short as program Director for
Duke University Accelerated BSN
program
Ratified Full Approval Status for the fol-lowing
nursing education programs
Duke University, Durham – ABSN
James Sprunt Community College,
Kenansville – ADN
James Sprunt Community College,
Kenansville – PNE
Mayland Community College, Spruce
Pine – PNE
NEWH Nursing Consortium, Rocky
Mount – PNE
Surry Community College, Dobson –
ADN
Surry Community College, Dobson –
PNE
Ratified Expansion in Enrollment in the
following nursing education programs
ECPI College of Technology, Charlotte
– PNE – increase from 60 to 120 effec-tive
Spring 2007 – Alternate
evening/ weekend schedule
Wayne Community College, Goldsboro,
– ADN – increase from 81 to 96 effec-tive
Fall 2007
Granted Full Approval
UNC- Pembroke, Pembroke – BSN
Carteret Community College, Morehead
City – ADN
INVESTIGATION AND MONITORING
ACTIONS
+ Voluntary surrenders from 25 RNs and 6
LPNs
+ Suspended the license of 6 RNs and 4
LPNs
+ Number of participants in the
Alternative Program 145
+ Number of participants in the Chemical
Discipline Dependency Program 76
+ Number of participant in the Illicit Drug
Program 46
30 { Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing } . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
NC Board of Nursing Workshop Registration Form 2007
Please check the appropriate Workshop Below
Continuing Competence Update
( 1.0CHs)
Information sessions related to board
requirements for demonstration of continu-ing
competence. Seating limited.
No fee required for cont comp sessions.
Questions/ Directions? Contact Paulette at
( 919) 782- 3211, ext. 244,
or via e- mail at PAULETTE@ ncbon. com.
If you are unable to attend one of
these workshops, please go to:
http:// www. ncbon. com/ prac- contcompwcast. asp
to view the web cast available 24/ 7.
YOU WILL BE ABLE TO PRINT CONTINUING COMPETENCE
DOCUMENTS AND RECEIVE CONTACT HOURS.
Legal Scope of Practice ( 2.3CHs)
The purpose of this offering is to provide information and
clarification regarding the legal scope of practice parameters
for licensed nurses in North Carolina.
Orientation Sessions for Administrators
of Nursing Services and Mid- Level
Nurse Managers ( 4.6 CHs)
Information sessions regarding the func-tions
of the Board of Nursing and the
impact of these functions on the roles of
the chief nurse administrator and the mid-level
nurse manager in all types of nursing
service settings.
___ August 8, 2007
___ November 13, 2007
Registration at least two weeks in advance of a
scheduled session is required. If you wish to review materi-als
prior to the session, please call 919/ 782- 3211 ext. 238
( limit 20 people per session)
Questions/ Directions?
Contact: Linda Blain at 919/ 782- 3211 ext. 238
or via e- mail at LINDAB@ ncbon. com
NAME:____________________________________________________________
TITLE:____________________________________________________________
ORGANIZATION NAME:_____________________________________________
ADDRESS: _________________________________________________________
CITY: ______________________________ STATE: ______ ZIP: ___________
WORK PH#: (____)_______________ HOME PH#: (____)________________
HOME ADDRESS:__________________________________________________
CITY: _______________________________ STATE: ________ ZIP: _________
E- MAIL ADDRESS: __________________________________________________
Make checks payable to North Carolina Board of Nursing or pay by credit card. Registration fee covers course materials.
Credit Card Type: MasterCard Visa Expiration Date: Month: _____ Year: _____
Credit Card Number: __________________________________________________
Cardholder Name ( as it appears on Credit Card):___________________________________
Cardholder Billing Address: _____________________________________________
CITY: ________________________________ STATE: _________ ZIP: _________
Code:__________________ Total Amount: $____________________
Cardholder Signature: ________________________________________________
( Credit card payment cannot be accepted via fax or phone.)
( Raleigh- NCBON- 10am- 3: 55pm)
Role of the LPN in North Carolina
( 3.8CHs)
( Registration starts at 8: 00 a. m.;
workshop ends at 12: 45 p. m.)
The purpose of this offering is to provide an overview regarding
the role, responsibilities, and scope of practice of the licensed
practical nurse. Content will focus on the role of the LPN in
contrast to the RN, clarification of the LPN as a nurse- in-charge,
and the role of the LPN in orienting the nurse aide.
RNs who assign to LPNs and LPNs in any type of practice set-ting
are encouraged to attend.
____ November 5, 2007 - Boone
Watauga Med Ctr
336 Deerfield Road
Auditorium
Questions/ Directions? Contact: Linda Blain at
919/ 782- 3211 ext. 238
or via e- mail at LINDAB@ ncbon. com
ONLINE WORKSHOP!
GO TO WWW. NCBON. COM
UNDER RECENT ANNOUNCEMENTS, LOCATE
“ LEGAL SCOPE OF PRACTICE ONLINE COURSE”
CLICK ON THE LINK AND FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS
Please Indicate the following: Title/ Date of Workshops
Registration fee: $ 40 per session per person, for all workshops
except Continuing Competence Update; NONREFUNDABLE ( unless
the workshop is cancelled) PLEASE PRINT ALL INFORMATION AND
MAIL TO: Administrative Secretary– Practice, NCBON, POB 2129,
Raleigh, NC 27602. Please give a complete address as you will be
mailed confirmation and directions.
The North Carolina Board of Nursing
is an Approved Provider of continuing
nursing education by the North
Carolina Nurses Association, an
accredited approver by the
American Nurses Credentialing
Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
CONTACT HOUR CERTIFICATES WILL BE
PRESENTED TO PARTICIPANTS WHO ATTEND
WORKSHOPS IN THEIR ENTIRETY.
Select only one session for August 20th
___ AUGUST 20, 2007 – ELIZABETH CITY
ALBEMARLE HOSPITAL – EDUCATION CENTER
1144 NORTH ROAD STREET
___ Session One – 10a- 11a
___ Session Two - 1p- 2p
___ NOVEMBER 7, 2007 – WILMINGTON – 11A - 12P
COSTAL AHEC
2131 SOUTH 17TH STREET

VOLUME 3 { NO 3} EDITION 9
{ Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing} . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . S UMME R
07
SUMMER 2007 BULLETIN
NC BOARD OF NURSING
Nursing Bulletin is the official
publication of the North
Carolina Board of Nursing.
Of f ice Locat ion
3724 National Drive, Ste 201
Raleigh, NC 27612
Mailing Address
P. O. Box 2129
Raleigh, NC 27602
Telephone
( 919) 782- 3211
Fax
( 919) 781- 9461
Automated Verification
( 919) 881- 2272
Website
www. ncbon. com
Office Hours
8 a. m. to 5 p. m.,
Monday through Friday
Board Chair
Beverly Foster, PhD, RN
Executive Director
Polly Johnson, RN, MSN, FAAN
Editor
David Kalbacker
Artists
Linda Arthurs, RN
Paulette Young
DayMeetsNight Photography
Mission Statement
The North Carolina Board of
Nursing is committed to protecting
the health and well- being of the
public through regulating the deliv-ery
of safe, effective nursing care.
Advertisements contained here-in
are not necessarily endorsed by
the North Carolina Board of
Nursing. The publisher reserves the
right to accept or reject advertise-ments
for the Nursing Bulletin.
All art ( photos, paintings, draw-ings,
etc.) contained in this publi-cation
is used under contractual
agreement.
123,000 copies of this document
were printed and mailed for a cost
of $. 12 per copy
The North Carolina Board of
Nursing is an equal opportunity
employer.
CREATED BY:
Publishing Concepts, Inc.
14109 Taylor Loop Road
Little Rock, AR 72223
Virginia Robertson, President
vrobertson@ pcipublishing. com
FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION:
Greg Jones
gjones@ pcipublishing. com
501.221.9986 • 800.561.4686
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
VOLUME 3 { NO 3 } EDITION 9
COTaNbleToEfNTS
9
14
DEPARTMENTS: 6 l e t t e r s t o t h e e d i t o r 7 f r o m t h e e x e c u t i v e
d i r e c t o r 8 f r o m t h e c h a i r 21 t h e B r e a k R o o m 27 S u m m a r y o f
A c t i o n s 29 C l a s s i f i e d s 30 2 0 0 7 Wo r k s h o p R e g i s t r a t i o n F o r m
18
Vot ing Di rect ions &
Slate of Candidates 2007
Frequent ly Asked
Ques t ions :
Cont inuing
Competence
Hepatitis C in North Carolina:
What Every Nurse Should Know
Vote 24 E l l i s Re c e i v e s Emp l o y e e
E x c e l l e n c e Awa r d
24 S e r v i n g t h e P u b l i c t h r o u g h
Re g u l a t o r y E x c e l l e n c e
Send letters to: Editor, Nursing
Bulletin, North Carolina Board of
Nursing, P. O. Box 2129, Raleigh, NC 27602- 2129
or Email, david@ ncbon. com
e t t e r s
t o t h e
E D I T O R L
{ Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing } . . . . . . . . . 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
“ DISAPPOINTED IN CARDLESS
LICENSURE SYSTEM”
I am disappointed in the new cardless licensure system. I take
pride in my license and have been proud of the professional
look of our current license. I wish you would reconsider this
system – even if it would be necessary to increase the cost.
LYNN PHELPS
EDITOR’S NOTE
Cost was not the main reason for going cardless. The
cardless licensure listing has several advantages. It
eliminates the worry of loosing a license. It eliminates
imposters using fraudulent licenses and it assists
employers in satisfying JACHO standards requiring the
primary source data for license verification.
“ FIRST NURSE/ ARTIST FEATURED”
Linda Arthurs is the
first nurse/ artist to
produce cover art
for the Nursing
Bulletin Magazine.
A registered nurse
for more than thir-ty
years, Arthurs,
worked most of her
nursing career at
High Point
Regional Health
Systems on the
Behavioral Health
Unit. “ Last June I
switched to PRN with the hospital in order to pursue a sec-ond
career in the art world. My husband and I have a
small photography studio located in Lexington, NC, said
Arthurs. “ I love photographing people enjoying the special
times in their lives.” If you can’t stop by and visit Arthurs’
studio, you can see her work on- line at
www. arthursphoto. com.
Arthurs is the mother of four children and has four grand-children.
NURSING BULLETIN MAGAZINE WINS GOLD
On May 15, 2007 the N. C. Board of Nursing was notified that this magazine, the Nursing Bulletin was awarded an Aster Award for
Excellence in Medical/ Healthcare Communications. The Aster Awards is a national medical marketing awards program allowing
healthcare organizations and advertising agencies to compete against similarly sized competitors from across the nation.
Each year the Aster Awards holds a competition allowing entries designed, printed and distributed the previous year to be scored and
judged for the possibility of receiving a Gold, Silver or Bronze award. This year more than 3,000 entries were received.
The Nursing Bulletin won Gold in the magazine series category.
Once again we are approaching a very important
time in the life of our Board of Nursing - the ELEC-TIONS!
Between July 1 and August 15, each North Carolina
licensee has the opportunity to participate in the process that
determines the membership of our Board. I ask each of you to
take part in this important, democratic process and ask you to
urge your nurse colleagues to do the same. VOTE!!! The can-didates
have already made a major commitment to protecting
the public through volunteering their service on this Board of
Nursing. It is now your responsibility to select the candidates
who will carry out this important public service. See page 14 for
all the election details.
As we continue on our journey of “ Serving The Public through
Regulatory Excellence,” the board must focus on a wide range of
regulatory standards from requirements for prelicensure educa-tion
programs, requirements for initial licensure and on- going
competence, to practice, remediation and disciplinary standards
that provide public protection through the delivery of safe,
effective nursing care. At their May 2007 meeting, the Board
gave final approval to set the following standards for all RN and
PN nursing education programs by 2015: ( 1) to achieve and
maintain on- going accreditation by a national nursing creden-tialing
body approved by the US Department of Education; and
( 2) to raise the standard for faculty preparation to a master’s or
nursing doctorate degree. The Board is committed to assuring
adequate preparation of our future workforce to meet the
demands for nursing care in an extremely complex healthcare
environment. I commend the Board for making these bold
moves now for the sake of the future.
As we continue to assure the public that our licensees are
safe to practice, the Board is expanding its non- disciplinary,
alternative program options for nurses struggling with chemical
dependency as well as for those nurses who have had positive
screens for alcohol or illicit drugs in work- related situations.
The NC Board of Nursing’s Alternative Program is a model for
many other regulatory boards in the state and nationally.
The Practitioner Remediation and Practice Enhancement
Partnership ( PREP) program continues to expand as we work
with nurses with deficits in knowledge, skills and clinical deci-sion-
making abilities and their employers through collabora-tive,
non- punitive agreements to enhance their competence as
practitioners to provide safe patient care. Within the quality
improvement and safe patient care initiatives across our state,
we are participating in a Just Culture Collaborative with sever-al
hospitals to evaluate adverse events to determine whether the
actions of a nurse ( or nurses) involved in the event warrant
counseling, remediation or disciplinary action – either at the
employment level, the Board level or both. We are also initiat-ing
dialogue with other regulatory bodies in the state to become
part of this patient safety initiative. The overall purpose of
these activities is to promote open dialogue that facilitates a cul-ture
of learning from errors while promoting consistency in how
events are evaluated by the employer and the Board. To learn
more about “ Just Culture” – a term coined by David Marx – visit
www. justculture. org.
Just as the Board takes its responsibility to protect the health
and well- being of the public seriously, I hope you will take seri-ously
your opportunity as a licensed nurse to determine who
serves on our Board. Please VOTE!!!!
Polly Johnson, RN, MSN, FAAN
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
f r o m t h e
E x e c u t i v e
D i r e c t o r
8 { Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing } . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What an exciting season summer is…. picnics, family gatherings, gardening and
…. voting! Yes, voting! Board member elections will be open from July 1 through
August 15. We have three openings in the 2007 election: one for an RN who is a
nurse administrator in a hospital or a hospital system; one for an RN who is a nurse
educator in a BSN or higher degree nursing program; and one for an LPN. You can
learn all about the candidates on the web cast located on the Board website, and you
can cast your vote there as well. See www. ncbon. com for all the details.
Let me encourage all of you to vote! There are 102,664 RN’s eligible to vote, but
only about 3 % ( 3,263) cast a ballot in 2006. For the same time period, only about
1.3% of the registered LPN's ( 21,046) voted. The Board needs your active involve-ment!
We are one of the few Boards in the nation elected by the professional con-stituency,
and I hope you will exercise this privilege. When I travel to the National
Council of State Boards of Nursing meetings on behalf of the Board and interact with
other Chairs, they are invariably envious of our autonomy and democratic representa-tion
process. I look forward to the election results and the welcoming of new mem-bers
in the fall.
The array of Board business offers something of interest to each of you…. educa-tional
standards revision, peer support programs, practice analyses and change, com-pliance
requirements, thoughtful dialogues regarding the changing climate for practice
and its regulatory implications, collaboration with other organizations to promote a
safe practice environment and participation in research to support our practice ( that
evidence- based phrase we hear so much about!) just to name a few. Periodically the
Board schedules a retreat for reflection, learning and relationship building within our
membership. Such a recent retreat led by Don Wells was a success, and we returned
to the business of the public meetings energized, a bit more informed and clearly valu-ing
each member for their contributions. Our Board is a unique blend of individuals
working together to protect the health of NC citizens through our practice. It isn’t
always smooth or easy, but it is always rewarding.
Beverly Foster, PhD, RN
f r o m t h e
c h a i r p e r s o n
George named
new Associate
Executive
Director for
Programs
Effective June 1, 2007, Julie George will be the Associate Executive
Director for Programs for the North Carolina Board of Nursing. George has
been on the board’s staff for more than 11 years and has moved up the
career ladder, starting as an Investigator to Practice Manager to Director of
Education and Practice. George succeeds Carol Swink who retired in May.
C HE PATITI S C in North Carolina
WHAT E V E RY NUR S E SHOULD KNOW
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
Hepatitis C virus ( HCV) infection is the most com-mon
blood- borne viral infection in the United States.
Studies done through the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention ( CDC) show that 1.6 percent of
Americans ( about 4 million) are infected with HCV,
most of whom are chronically infected ( 2.7 million).
Many of these individuals are not aware of their infection
and have no overt symptoms of the disease. Because hep-atitis
C progresses slowly, the consequences of the disease
may not become apparent until 10- 20 years after infec-tion.
Studies show that 60- 80 percent of HCV- infected
persons develop chronic infection. Hepatitis C has been
described as “ a silent epidemic” due to these millions of
undiagnosed cases.
Risk factors for HCV infection include injection drug
use— even if only once many years ago, transfusion of
blood and blood products before 1992, use of blood clot-ting
components before 1987, tattoos/ piercings with a
contaminated needle, occupational exposures to blood,
birth of an infant to an infected mother, and, to a lesser
extent, sexual contact with an infected partner.
The number of new ( acute) cases of HCV is actually
decreasing nationwide as blood tests and screening have
become more sophisticated and those at greatest risk are
becoming more educated about ways to reduce their risks.
More alarming are the growing numbers of people who
were unknowingly infected with HCV years ago and are
only now experiencing the devastating effects of the dis-ease.
For these people, primarily in the 40- 65 age group,
learning they have chronic hepatitis C is a frightening
and bewildering prospect.
The hepatitis C virus was not discovered until 1989.
Until that time, the disease was known as non- A, non- B
hepatitis. According to the CDC, the risk of developing
hepatitis C after an occupational exposure is 1.8 percent.
You may be one of many nurses who unknowingly had an
occupational exposure to the hepatitis C virus years ago.
So how do you know if you are one of the infected thou-sands
who have chronic hepatitis C?
Because symptoms of the disease are usually absent or
nonspecific, the only sure way to determine if you are
infected is to be tested. Thorough testing includes HCV
antibody testing, HCV RNA RT- PCR testing ( which
measures HCV viral load), and liver function tests. If
hepatitis C is confirmed, a liver biopsy may be needed to
determine the need for treatment.
Many people who are diagnosed with hepatitis C
believe they have been handed a death sentence. This is
NOT true! The majority of those diagnosed with chronic
hepatitis C ( 80 percent) will have a stable course of the
disease and experience no obvious ill effects. A lifestyle
that includes a healthy diet, exercise, and little to no
alcohol consumption, along with regular monitoring of
liver enzymes and other lab work is all that’s needed to
live a healthy life with hepatitis C. Because hepatitis C is
a bloodborne virus, transmission can be prevented by
covering any open cuts, sores, or wounds, and by not
sharing anything that might have blood on it, such as
razors, nail clippers, etc.
But what if you’re one of those with chronic hepatitis
C for whom treatment is recommended? Despite ideas to
the contrary, hepatitis C can be successfully treated! The
goal of treatment is to eradicate the virus. Currently, the
standard of care is a combination of two medications.
Pegylated interferon is injected once a week and ribavirin
comes in pill form and is taken twice daily. The course of
treatment is generally for 24 or 48 weeks, depending on
what genotype or strain of hepatitis the patient has.
YOU’ L L B E HE A R ING MOR E
A BOUT CHRONIC HE PAT I T S C
IN THE NEXT T EN TO F I F T E EN
Y E A R S . CDC P R EDICT S THAT
THE HCV- R E L AT ED MORTA L I T Y
MIGHT DOUB L E OR T R I P L E
OV E R THE NEXT T EN TO
TWENT Y Y E A R S .
continued >>
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THE NORTH
CA ROLI NA
HE PAT I T I S C
P ROGR AM
NC DIVISION OF
PUBLIC HEALTH
The Hepatitis C Program is integrat-ed
with the HIV/ STD Prevention and
Care Branch because both Hepatitis C
( HCV) and HIV infections involve
blood- borne pathogens requiring simi-lar
disease response and prevention.
The programs serve similar at- risk pop-ulations.
A primary focus of the
Hepatitis C Program is to provide edu-cation,
not only to healthcare providers
and professionals across the state, but
also to consumers. Education, in the
form of presentations, written materi-als,
and videotapes, is available from
the state Hepatitis C Program. Two
good sources of information available
from the Hepatitis C Program are the
Hepatitis C: Get the Facts information
packets designed for newly diagnosed
persons and the Hepatitis C Resource
Directory for North Carolinians. Both
provide a wealth of information about
hepatitis C, including testing, counsel-ing,
and medical management, along
with support group services available
throughout the state.
The vision of the North Carolina
Hepatitis C Program is for all North
Carolinians to have access to viral hepatitis
testing, treatment, and prevention services,
regardless of ability to pay, and for educa-tion
and awareness of viral hepatitis to
become a statewide priority with funds allo-cated
to make the vision a reality.
FOR MORE INFORMATION,
CONTACT THE NC HEPATITIS C
PROGRAM AT 919 733- 2030 EXT. 56
PETE. MOORE@ NCMAIL. NET.
Positive response rates to treatment
range from 40- 80 percent, again depending
on the genotype and various characteristics
of the individual. The decision to treat is
highly individualized and should be made
only after a thorough discussion between
patient and physician.
If CDC estimates are correct, you’ll be
hearing more about chronic hepatitis C in
the next ten to fifteen years. CDC predicts
that the HCV- related mortality might dou-ble
or triple over the next ten to twenty
years. Research has projected that the
national cost of direct medical care for hepa-titis
C from 2010 through 2019 will reach
over $ 10 billion. So, if you’re a nurse who
has worked for many years in the profession,
who may have had an occupational exposure
years ago, or who has one or more of the risk
factors listed above, please get tested. It’s
the only way to know for sure if you have
hepatitis C.
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DIRECTIONS
TO VOTE BY TELEPHONE:
Dial the Board’s special toll- free number, 1- 877-
531- 1811. Listen to the directions, and enter your
candidate selection ( via push- button from a
touch- tone phone).
TO VOTE ONLINE:
Log on to the Board’s website at www. ncbon. com,
click on the Election 2007 link, and follow the
instructions.
The system for either telephone or Internet voting
will confirm your voter eligibility and tabulate
results electronically.
The slate of candidates for 2007 is
included in this mailing of the
Bulletin. In it you will find biographi-cal
and practice information about the
candidates, as well as their personal
reasons for wanting to be members of
the Board of Nursing.
Please read and follow directions
carefully. As you review the informa-tion
provided by candidates, remember
that you don’t have to know each can-didate
on the slate personally to make
a selection. Instead, take the time to
review each candidate’s background
information and his or her stated rea-sons
for wanting to serve on the Board
of Nursing. Then cast your vote for
the candidate who you feel is most
qualified.
We urge each of you to take the
time to vote for the candidate of your
choice via telephone or Internet. It is
fast, it is easy, and it makes a differ-ence!
Participating in the election is a
significant way to influence the deci-sions
that affect your practice of nurs-ing
in North Carolina.
If you have any questions regarding
the slate of candidates or the electron-ic
election system, contact Angela
Ellis at the Board office, ( 919) 782-
3211, ext. 259, or angela@ ncbon. com.
VOTE IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE!
Voting
Beginning July 1, you can have a direct impact
on nursing issues in North Carolina by voting in this
year’s election of nurse members of the North
Carolina Board of Nursing.
Your certificate number and four- digit PIN com-bine
to become a unique identifier that allows you
to vote in the 2007 elections. Your PIN is located in
the upper- right corner of the mailing label affixed to
this issue of Nursing Bulletin. If you cannot read or
locate your PIN, simply provide the information
requested by the electronic election system, and it
will issue your PIN.
You can vote by telephone or via the Internet
starting on July 1. The last day to vote is August 15,
2007. Remember that you can do this 24 hours a
day, 7 days a week.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
SLATE OF CANDIDATES FOR 2007
LPN SLATE OF CANDIDATES: LPNS VOTE FOR LPNS
# 1 NAME: JOAN GUILIANELLI BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: I am an LPN with 30+ years of
experience in a variety of areas including but not limited to ICU, CCU, ER, newborn nursery, personal
health, orthopedics, and research. I am from NY where I attended college at the Albany Occupational
Center obtaining my LPN license. I am currently working at the Durham VAMC in Durham, NC. My pas-sion
is in urology where I have worked for the past ten years. I have had my urology certification for eight
years. I believe in ongoing education for all nurses. I feel an educated nurse is an asset to both patients and
employers. What do I have to offer the public of North Carolina if I am elected to the Board of Nursing? I have many years of
experience as a LPN. I have listened to many nurses with positive and negative issues. I feel I can bring some of these con-cerns
to the board to be addressed and to work toward positive outcomes for all involved. I would like to serve on the
North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . . I would like a better understanding of the board’s role on a local/ statewide
basis. I would then like to share this knowledge with peers and encourage them to become more involved. How will the
experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s work? The LPNs role today is somewhere between the CNA
and the RN. Sometimes it is a very gray area and the boundaries are unclear. I feel with my experience I can contribute to
the board ideas and viewpoints to improve the nursing role in NC.
# 3 NAME: DENNIS L. THOMPSON BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: I am a 52 year old single dad
and grandfather of four beautiful children. I have more than 30 years of nursing experience, 20 of which was
in a hospital setting. I have worked throughout the hospital from acute to sub- acute theaters. I have experi-ence
in the surgical intensive care, coronary care units ( I have credentialing in EKG interpretation) and pre
and post- op surgical units. I was shift supervisor in an eight bed peritoneal dialysis unit with a staff of four.
Currently, I am working in long term care. In my free time I enjoy reading, playing cards and taking vaca-tions.
What do I have to offer the public of North Carolina if I am elected to the Board of Nursing? I offer 30 years of experi-ence
in every theater of nursing. I am knowledgeable in medications, a preceptor for new nurses in our facility and have
credentialing of clinical nurse two. I work closely with the general public in my every day setting. I would like to serve on the
North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . . I will have a voice and chance to make a difference for all nurses and citizens
in North Carolina. I am a thinker and I will offer frank and honest input, based upon my direct experience. My vocation is
my way to give back to our community. How will the experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s work? I
work directly with the public on a daily basis. I am committed to my patients, their families and my
employer. The past 30 years of nursing provides me with a wealth of experience to draw upon when it
comes to dealing with issues facing nursing professionals.
# 2 NAME: PAUL J. RUSK BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: I have been in nursing almost 26 years. I
graduated from UNC- Wilmington in 1981 with a BA in Sociology. I then graduated from Cape Fear Technical
College in 1982 as a LPN. I served five years in the U. S. Navy before starting school. I worked for New
Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington for 23 years in cardiac. I have worked the last two and a half
years as Director of Azalea Place assisted living for Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehab Center. My work
experience includes dialysis, cardiac, med- surg and step down unit. What do I have to offer the public of North
Carolina if I am elected to the Board of Nursing? I offer 26 years of dedication as a nurse in North Carolina. I offer seven
years experience as a Board Member. I am dedicated to protecting the public and ensuring they receive excellent nursing
care. It is very important to keep to the Mission of the Board of Nursing, which is to protect the public, and maintain the
nursing profession. I would like to serve on the North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . . I believe that I have the drive to
help maintain the safe and competent practice of nursing. I will ensure that the public remains safe and has the confidence in
the nurses in our state to deliver that care. How will the experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s work?
With 26 years of nursing, I have seen a lot of changes in the profession. It is very important to stay up with the changes in
the nursing profession, and to keep our nurses up to date. With all my nursing experience and service on the Board, I feel I
strive to do just that. As a nurse in this state, it is very important to keep up with the issues facing our Board and the public.
I t m a k e s a d i f f e r e n c e ! Vote
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RN SLATE OF CANDIDATES: RNS VOTE FOR RNS
# 1 NAME: LUCILLE L. TRAVIS BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Lucille Lombardi Travis PhD, RN, CNA, BC is Associate
Dean/ Director of the School of Nursing at UNC- Charlotte. Prior to assuming this position, she served as Special Assistant to the
Provost after serving as Dean for the College of Nursing at University of Missouri- St. Louis. Dr. Travis also served as Interim Dean at
Texas Woman’s University College of Nursing. She has a comprehensive background in academic administration including strategic plan-ning,
curriculum development, faculty development, distance learning and nursing informatics. Dr. Travis earned a BSN, MS in nursing
and PhD in higher education administration from The Ohio State University. She also is certified in Nursing Administration by the ANCC
and is a member of ANA and NCNA. What do I have to offer the public of North Carolina if I am elected to the Board of Nursing? I will bring
energy, enthusiasm and passion for the nursing profession. I understand the vital importance of all levels of nursing education, interest and experience
in developing cooperative programs between education and service organizations. I would like to serve on the North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . .
Professional nursing in NC is progressive; I want to be a part of the plan to continue the success that is evident in the state. I believe it is important for
the profession of nursing to maintain the confidence of the public. Nurses are the most trusted professionals in the nation and the BON is responsible
for ensuring that the public continues to view nursing as the discipline that is trusted to provide competent care. How will the experience you have had as
a nurse contribute to the Board’s work? I have been involved in nursing education for more than 35 years, in five different states, and bring a variety of
experiences in numerous venues. A major initiative that I would support is in reducing the barriers to the education pipeline for individuals. One way
for that to happen is to encourage alternative delivery strategies for nursing programs and collaborative initiatives that would allow courses across the
state to be transferable and accessible.
# 2 NAME: ELEANOR JOYCE S. ROLAND BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: Dr. Roland is employed as an associate professor
at NCCU Department of Nursing, Durham, NC, and has been at NCCU since 2000. Dr. Roland holds a masters degree in Maternal-
Child Nursing from Seton Hall University, and a doctorate in Community Psychology from NC State University. Dr. Roland taught nurs-ing
at UNC- CH ( 1978- 1989), and worked at Research Triangle Institute ( RTI) from 1991- 1997 ( Research Psychologist). In 1999, she
completed post doctoral work in alcohol epidemiology at the University of California, Berkeley, and from 2004- 2006 was a scholar in
the Mentored Scientist program ( Duke University/ NCCU), funded by the Office of Women’s Health/ NIH. What do I have to offer the
public of North Carolina if I am elected to the Board of Nursing? If elected to the board of nursing, I will bring more than 40+ years of varied
nursing experiences to the board. My preparation in Adult Education strategies will help in identifying new strategies for teaching the diverse mix of
nursing candidates we are attracting. I would like to serve on the North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . . I would like to serve on the board because
it is a way to give back to the State of North Carolina as well as be a part of the decision making as it relates to improving nursing practice in the state
in the 21st century. I’d like to see nursing education available to all who qualify for programs and offered in a manner that will improve the health
care of all the state’s citizens. How will the experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s work? I have had experience teaching the diploma
student, the baccalaureate student, and the RN student. In addition to nursing education, I have years of experience as a staff nurse, an administrator
and a nurse anesthetist. I bring a variety of work experiences in different settings that should help the board in developing policies that will continue
the development of the RN as a very knowledgeable and valuable member of the health care team in North Carolina.
# 3 NAME: PAMELA B. EDWARDS BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: I have been a Registered Nurse for 29 years and have a
Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from Atlantic Christian College, a Master’s Degree in Nursing Education from Villanova University and a
Doctoral Degree in Occupational and Adult Education from North Carolina State University. I have worked as a staff nurse, a clinical
nurse educator, an Education Department Director, as an AHEC Nursing Director, as an Associate Degree Nursing Educator, and MSN
faculty member. I currently serve Duke University Health System as an Associate Chief Nursing Officer, Education and the Duke
University School of Nursing as the Specialty Director of the MSN Nursing Education Program. What do I have to offer the public of North
Carolina if I am elected to the Board of Nursing? If elected to the North Carolina Board of Nursing, I would strive to protect the citizens of this state
through sound decision making and a strong commitment to the regulation of the nursing profession. I would like to serve on the North Carolina Board of
Nursing because. . . This is an exciting time to be involved in Nursing Education in North Carolina. We are working across practice settings to solve
some of the critical barriers to increasing the number of both nursing students and nursing faculty in our state. I would
like the opportunity to serve on the NCBON and have an active role in the regulation of nursing practice and education.
How will the experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s work? As a nurse with 29 years of experience in the
profession, I believe that both my nursing experience as well as my current role as an MSN Specialty Director allows me
the opportunity to have a unique understanding of both education and practice and how we can work more effectively
across those settings. Additionally, I have experience serving on the Board in 2004 and as Vice- Chair in 2005.
POSITION: BSN/ HIGHER DEGREE NURSE EDUCATOR
I t m a k e s a d i f f e r e n c e ! Vote
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# 1 NAME: MARY ANN FUCHS BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: I hold a BSN from SUNY Binghamton. I attained a Master’s
degree in nursing from Duke University in 1990 and am studying to obtain a post master’s certificate in education. I have 25 years of expe-rience
in nursing. I have held various roles at Duke University Hospital including staff nurse, assistant and nurse manager, Director of
Oncology Nursing and Services and Associate Operating Officer for Oncology. I have also served as a triage nurse for Kaiser and a volun-teer
hospice nurse. Currently, I serve as the Chief Nursing and Patient Care Services Officer for Duke University Hospital and Health
System. As the Nurse Administrator on NCBON for the past 2 years, I believe in the ability to provide expert nursing care to assure safe and
quality service to the public. I’m honest, trustworthy and objectively contribute to the work of the board. I’m knowledgeable about the laws and
the regulatory responsibilities of the board. This I balance with the understanding of professional nursing, assuring a good work environment and decision making
processes incorporating “ just culture” concepts. I would like to serve on the North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . . Professional nursing in NC is progressive; I
want to be a part of the plan to continue the success that is evident in the state. I believe it is important for the profession of nursing to maintain the confi-dence
of the public. Nurses are the most trusted professionals in the nation and the BON is responsible for ensuring that the public continues to view nursing
as the discipline that is trusted to provide competent care. How will the experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s work? The board’s work is to
assure the public has access to competent, safe and ethical care. My experiences as a nurse allow me to understand the skills, competencies and environment
necessary to practice and deliver safe and effective nursing care. My experience in developing and implementing nursing focused strategic plans will also aid
the board in enhancing roles nurses can legally provide ( basic or advanced) to our communities and the public at large.
# 2 NAME: JACQUELINE F. RING BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: I began my nursing career as a Staff Nurse in the Pediatric ICU at
Charlotte Memorial Hospital, after graduating from UNC- Charlotte. I have since held positions in varying capacities including; Nursing
Instructor at Watts Hospital School of Nursing, Nurse Manager and Assistant Director of Women and Infant Services at WakeMed in Raleigh,
Regional Pediatric Home Care Coordinator, and Chief Nursing Officer positions at several hospitals, including my current position as Vice
President of Nursing at Johnston Memorial Hospital in Smithfield, NC. In addition to a BSN, I hold a MBA/ MHA degree from Pfeiffer
University. I would like to serve on the North Carolina Board of Nursing because. . . I offer a caring commitment to utilize my experience, enthusi-asm,
and leadership ability to ensure safe nursing practice for the citizens of North Carolina. I have previously served on the Board for four years
and realize the importance of continuity in addressing the issues of public safety and nursing standards. I will provide insight based on my experience as a Board
member and 31 years of nursing practice to work toward excellence in nursing regulation. How will the experience you have had as a nurse contribute to the Board’s
work? I have practiced nursing in educational, administrative, and front- line clinical roles, and can relate to issues in all settings. I clearly understand and have
experienced the frustrations and challenges across the scope of nursing, and will work to represent my nursing colleagues objectively and realistically. My role
as a nursing administrator has given me valuable insight into patient focused concerns as well as nursing issues that are important to the work of the Board.
POSITION: NURSE ADMINISTRATOR IN A HOSPITAL OR HOSPITAL SYSTEM
RN SLATE OF CANDIDATES: RNS VOTE FOR RNS
Once again the overwhelming majority of voters in last year’s election were pleased with our offering an incentive to those nurses in North
Carolina who take the time to vote for candidates to the Board of Nursing. This year we are happy to announce that two quality incentives
have been made available to voters in the 2007 election. Generous donations, in support of nurses in North Carolina, have been made by the
newly opened luxury Franklin Hotel in Chapel Hill and the Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock, North Carolina.
Mark your calendar and vote in the 2007 election ( July 1st to Aug. 15th) so you will be eligible to win one of these exciting getaway incentives.
EF O Rle2c0t0io7nIncentives
I graduated from nursing school, passed NCLEX,
and was licensed for the first time in June, 2007.
When do I start working on my continuing competence
requirement?
Upon initial licensure, you are required to complete
your initial self- assessment and to develop your learn-ing
plan. You keep these documents for your records; they
are not sent to the Board. You then start working to fulfill
your chosen Learning Option. At the time of your first
license renewal, which will occur in July 2008 or later, you
will be required to attest to the fact that you have fulfilled
the Continuing Competence requirement. If audited at that
time, you will be required to submit evidence of completion.
If your initial licensure period is less than two years, the con-tinuing
education requirement within many of the Learning
Options is pro- rated accordingly.
Continuing Competence information and related documents
are available online at: http:// www. ncbon. com/ prac- cont-comp.
asp . A Continuing Competence web cast explaining
the requirements is available at:
http:// www. ncbon. com/ prac- contcompwcast. asp .
I renewed my license in February 2006 before the
Continuing Competence requirement went into
effect. When I renew in February 2008, I will complete
my first self- assessment and learning plan. I plan to meet
my learning goal through completion of 15 contact hours
of continuing education and through working at least 640
hours. What documentation will I need to retain and pro-vide
as evidence, if I am selected for audit at my renewal
in February 2010?
If audited, you will be required to provide copies of
the continuing education certificates which you
obtained upon successful completion of each offering
( remember that employer- sponsored contact hours are limited to
no more than half of your total contact hours!). The certificates
should include the name of the licensee, title of educational
activity, name of the recognized provider, number of contact
hours, and date of activity. In addition, you will be required
to provide documentation of your hours worked in nursing.
The name of the licensee, number of hours worked in calen-dar
or fiscal year( s), name and address of employer, and sig-nature
of supervisor must be included. If you submit a copy
of an official organization pay stub showing your cumulative
worked hours, the signature of a supervisor is not required.
A.
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FQ
C O N T I N U I N G C OMP E T E N C E
Frequently Asked
Questions
Q.
A.
Q.
BY LINDA BURHANS
Two States to join nurse licensure compact this summer
The state of Kentucky is implementing the nurse licensure compact agreement effective June 1, 2007 and the state of
Colorado is scheduled to do the same a month later, July 1, 2007.
This will bring the total number of compact states to twenty- two. For those keeping score – the compact states include:
Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North
Carolina, North Dakota, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin and by July Kentucky
and Colorado.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
the BREAK
r o o m
We are all born with
wonderful gifts. We use
these gifts to express
ourselves, to amuse, to
strengthen, and to
communicate. We begin
as children to explore and
develop our talents, often
unaware that we are
unique, that not everyone
can do what we're doing!
24 { Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing } . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
This slogan has been adopted by the
Board’s staff to reflect a heightened awareness
of the services provided to the citizens of
North Carolina by the Board of Nursing.
The staff was challenged to develop a very
short statement that would embrace the
Board’s mission and values. The develop-ment
of this slogan has been a product of the
organization’s efforts to successfully complete
Level II of the North Carolina Awards for
Excellence program. More than 30 suggested
slogans were developed by approximately 15
different staff members.
Staff voted on the slogan they thought
best reflected the Board’s work. Kay
McMullan, Dir. of Investigations/ Monitoring,
developed the winning slogan.
According to McMullan, “ I began by
identifying key words from our mission state-ment.
I moved the words around like I was
playing with magnets that had words on
them. My primary objective was to have an
active slogan, because I realize that our mis-sion
is on going and protecting the public is a
24/ 7 responsibility.”
“ We are the experts in nursing regulation
in the state so I wanted to make sure that was
clearly noted,” added McMullan.
The new slogan has already begun appear-ing
on the Board’s stationery and will also
appear on the Board’s webpage
Serving the Public through
Regulatory Excellence
This year’s conference theme is
“ Cultures in Transition: Healthcare
Consumer, Providers and Payers.” The
keynote speaker will be Dr. Robert
Kolodner, Interim National Coordinator for
Health Information Technology in the
Department of Health and Human Services.
The opening plenary session for the NCHI-CA
Annual conference is scheduled for
Monday, Sept. 24, 2007 at the Grove Park
Inn in Asheville, North Carolina. Additional
conference information is available on- line at:
HTTP:// WWW. NCHICA. ORG/ ACTIVITIES/ 07/ AGENDA. HTM.
Registration is available for one day or for the
entire conference.
The North Carolina
Healthcare Information &
Communications Alliance
( N C H I C A )
scheduled to meet
Employee Excellence Award
The 2007 recipient of the Board’s
Employee Excellence Award is Angela
Ellis, executive assistant to the Executive
Director. Ellis, who has more than 15
years of service at the Board, was the driv-ing
force behind the development of the
Board Member Website and the institu-tion
of “ paperless board meetings.” During
the unveiling of the “ paperless board
meeting,” Ellis presented the program with
great depth of knowledge and was able to
confidently respond to members questions.
One of Ms. Ellis’s most valuable assets
is her ability to be accepting of all types of
personalities – embracing diversity with-out
judgment and with a high degree of
professionalism. Quoting one nominator,
“ Ms. Ellis has always exhibited an
unselfish commitment to her responsibili-ties
at the Board of Nursing.”
The award recognizes the achievements
of Board staff. Recipients are nominated
by fellow staff members.
ELLIS RECEIVES
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NC
SUMMARY of ACTIONS
In keeping with public records and open meetings laws, the North Carolina Board of Nursing posts all actions in the Nursing Bulletin
or on its website, at www. ncbon. com. A regular meeting of the Board was held on May 22, 2007, in Raleigh. The following is a sum-mary
of the Board’s actions.
From the May 22, 2007, Board Meeting
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
• Approved the proposed fiscal year 2007-
2008 budget to include the following fee
increases effective 01/ 01/ 2008:
- Re- exam from $ 45 to $ 54
- Retired nurse status from $ 25 to $ 30
• Approved proposed revisions to fiscal
policy regarding Expense
Reimbursements for Board Members
• Designated Funds for on- going adminis-trative
activities
EDUCATION/ PRACTICE MATTERS
Ratified mail referendum for program
director approval
Waive 21NCAC 36.0317
Administration ( c) and approve Dr.
Nancy Short as program Director for
Duke University Accelerated BSN
program
Ratified Full Approval Status for the fol-lowing
nursing education programs
Duke University, Durham – ABSN
James Sprunt Community College,
Kenansville – ADN
James Sprunt Community College,
Kenansville – PNE
Mayland Community College, Spruce
Pine – PNE
NEWH Nursing Consortium, Rocky
Mount – PNE
Surry Community College, Dobson –
ADN
Surry Community College, Dobson –
PNE
Ratified Expansion in Enrollment in the
following nursing education programs
ECPI College of Technology, Charlotte
– PNE – increase from 60 to 120 effec-tive
Spring 2007 – Alternate
evening/ weekend schedule
Wayne Community College, Goldsboro,
– ADN – increase from 81 to 96 effec-tive
Fall 2007
Granted Full Approval
UNC- Pembroke, Pembroke – BSN
Carteret Community College, Morehead
City – ADN
INVESTIGATION AND MONITORING
ACTIONS
+ Voluntary surrenders from 25 RNs and 6
LPNs
+ Suspended the license of 6 RNs and 4
LPNs
+ Number of participants in the
Alternative Program 145
+ Number of participants in the Chemical
Discipline Dependency Program 76
+ Number of participant in the Illicit Drug
Program 46
30 { Of f i cial Publ i cat ion of the NO RT H CA R O L I N A Board of Nur s ing } . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
NC Board of Nursing Workshop Registration Form 2007
Please check the appropriate Workshop Below
Continuing Competence Update
( 1.0CHs)
Information sessions related to board
requirements for demonstration of continu-ing
competence. Seating limited.
No fee required for cont comp sessions.
Questions/ Directions? Contact Paulette at
( 919) 782- 3211, ext. 244,
or via e- mail at PAULETTE@ ncbon. com.
If you are unable to attend one of
these workshops, please go to:
http:// www. ncbon. com/ prac- contcompwcast. asp
to view the web cast available 24/ 7.
YOU WILL BE ABLE TO PRINT CONTINUING COMPETENCE
DOCUMENTS AND RECEIVE CONTACT HOURS.
Legal Scope of Practice ( 2.3CHs)
The purpose of this offering is to provide information and
clarification regarding the legal scope of practice parameters
for licensed nurses in North Carolina.
Orientation Sessions for Administrators
of Nursing Services and Mid- Level
Nurse Managers ( 4.6 CHs)
Information sessions regarding the func-tions
of the Board of Nursing and the
impact of these functions on the roles of
the chief nurse administrator and the mid-level
nurse manager in all types of nursing
service settings.
___ August 8, 2007
___ November 13, 2007
Registration at least two weeks in advance of a
scheduled session is required. If you wish to review materi-als
prior to the session, please call 919/ 782- 3211 ext. 238
( limit 20 people per session)
Questions/ Directions?
Contact: Linda Blain at 919/ 782- 3211 ext. 238
or via e- mail at LINDAB@ ncbon. com
NAME:____________________________________________________________
TITLE:____________________________________________________________
ORGANIZATION NAME:_____________________________________________
ADDRESS: _________________________________________________________
CITY: ______________________________ STATE: ______ ZIP: ___________
WORK PH#: (____)_______________ HOME PH#: (____)________________
HOME ADDRESS:__________________________________________________
CITY: _______________________________ STATE: ________ ZIP: _________
E- MAIL ADDRESS: __________________________________________________
Make checks payable to North Carolina Board of Nursing or pay by credit card. Registration fee covers course materials.
Credit Card Type: MasterCard Visa Expiration Date: Month: _____ Year: _____
Credit Card Number: __________________________________________________
Cardholder Name ( as it appears on Credit Card):___________________________________
Cardholder Billing Address: _____________________________________________
CITY: ________________________________ STATE: _________ ZIP: _________
Code:__________________ Total Amount: $____________________
Cardholder Signature: ________________________________________________
( Credit card payment cannot be accepted via fax or phone.)
( Raleigh- NCBON- 10am- 3: 55pm)
Role of the LPN in North Carolina
( 3.8CHs)
( Registration starts at 8: 00 a. m.;
workshop ends at 12: 45 p. m.)
The purpose of this offering is to provide an overview regarding
the role, responsibilities, and scope of practice of the licensed
practical nurse. Content will focus on the role of the LPN in
contrast to the RN, clarification of the LPN as a nurse- in-charge,
and the role of the LPN in orienting the nurse aide.
RNs who assign to LPNs and LPNs in any type of practice set-ting
are encouraged to attend.
____ November 5, 2007 - Boone
Watauga Med Ctr
336 Deerfield Road
Auditorium
Questions/ Directions? Contact: Linda Blain at
919/ 782- 3211 ext. 238
or via e- mail at LINDAB@ ncbon. com
ONLINE WORKSHOP!
GO TO WWW. NCBON. COM
UNDER RECENT ANNOUNCEMENTS, LOCATE
“ LEGAL SCOPE OF PRACTICE ONLINE COURSE”
CLICK ON THE LINK AND FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS
Please Indicate the following: Title/ Date of Workshops
Registration fee: $ 40 per session per person, for all workshops
except Continuing Competence Update; NONREFUNDABLE ( unless
the workshop is cancelled) PLEASE PRINT ALL INFORMATION AND
MAIL TO: Administrative Secretary– Practice, NCBON, POB 2129,
Raleigh, NC 27602. Please give a complete address as you will be
mailed confirmation and directions.
The North Carolina Board of Nursing
is an Approved Provider of continuing
nursing education by the North
Carolina Nurses Association, an
accredited approver by the
American Nurses Credentialing
Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
CONTACT HOUR CERTIFICATES WILL BE
PRESENTED TO PARTICIPANTS WHO ATTEND
WORKSHOPS IN THEIR ENTIRETY.
Select only one session for August 20th
___ AUGUST 20, 2007 – ELIZABETH CITY
ALBEMARLE HOSPITAL – EDUCATION CENTER
1144 NORTH ROAD STREET
___ Session One – 10a- 11a
___ Session Two - 1p- 2p
___ NOVEMBER 7, 2007 – WILMINGTON – 11A - 12P
COSTAL AHEC
2131 SOUTH 17TH STREET